LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – WhatsApp is introducing a new voice chat feature designed to enhance group calling on the platform.
Unlike the current system where group calls ring all members’ devices, this feature aims to offer a less intrusive experience, allowing participants to multitask within the app.
Similar to functionalities found in Slack and Discord, this new voice chat feature will enable users to engage in other activities on WhatsApp while being part of a group call.
The rollout of this feature on Android was announced via X (previously known as Twitter).
It’s available to users who have updated their WhatsApp to the latest versions on the Google Play Store for Android and the App Store for iOS.
Upon enabling voice chats for a group, members will find an option to initiate a voice chat in place of the regular group call button.
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To start a voice chat, users can tap the new waveform icon located at the top right corner of the group chat screen.
Once initiated, members will receive a push notification inviting them to join. Profiles of participants will be visible to everyone in the group, including those not part of the voice chat.
Additionally, users can continue messaging other group members who are not part of the ongoing voice chat.
The feature permits users to join or leave the voice chat multiple times, and it automatically concludes once all participants exit.
Alternatively, it will end if no participants join or if only one person remains in the chat for an hour.
Initially, WhatsApp’s voice chats will be available for larger groups with over 32 members, expanding to groups of up to 128 participants.
However, this feature will only be accessible on a user’s primary device, with linked devices not supported.